Before the Ballot- with Ward 13 Councillor Candidate Rick Kunc

Welcome to this instalment of Before the Ballot- featuring Ward 13 Candidate Rick Kunc.

What motivated you to run for council, and why do you believe now is the right time for new leadership in your ward?

After retiring from a 30-year career in educational leadership, I felt strongly that it was time to give back to the community that has given so much to me and my family.

I was raised here, I raised my family here, and for more than five decades I’ve seen firsthand what makes Ward 13 such a special place to live. Community matters here. Whether it’s Dundas, Greensville, Rockton, Freelton or the rural communities across the ward, people care deeply about where they live and want to see it thrive.

Municipal government is the level of government that touches our lives most directly. We feel the decisions made at City Hall every single day - in our roads, our taxes, our recreation facilities, our infrastructure, and the services we rely on.

Over the past year, I’ve spent a great deal of time listening to residents in coffee shops, arenas, parks, restaurants and community events. What I’ve heard consistently is that people want to be heard, they want accountable leadership, and they want someone who will listen, learn and act. I believe now is the right time for leadership that is connected to the community, grounded in collaboration, and focused on practical solutions that strengthen Ward 13 and Hamilton as a whole.

Every ward has its own unique challenges. What do you believe are the top three issues facing residents in your ward today, and how would you address them?

Ward 13 is one of the largest wards geographically in Hamilton, with very diverse communities and priorities across more than 25 square kilometres.

This past year I have taken the time to truly listen to what residents have been saying. Speaking with people across the ward, and while different communities have different concerns, a few priorities consistently rise to the top.

Affordability and value for tax dollars are major concerns everywhere. Residents want confidence that City Hall is making responsible decisions and focusing on core priorities. We need to find new approaches to managing infrastructure and city finances because continuing to do things the same way is not sustainable.

Protecting our local environment is another major issue, particularly in communities like Greensville where residents care deeply about the aquifer and quarry-related concerns. People want thoughtful growth and responsible decision-making that protects the character and environmental health of their communities.

Infrastructure and community services are also front of mind. Residents want safer roads, better maintained infrastructure, strong recreational opportunities, and reliable frontline services that improve quality of life for families and seniors alike.

My approach will always begin with listening. I believe good decisions are made when residents are genuinely engaged in the process and when leadership is willing to work collaboratively to find practical, long-term solutions.

Municipal government often requires balancing competing interests and difficult budget decisions. How would you approach making tough decisions at City Hall?

Tough decisions are part of leadership, and throughout my career I’ve learned that the best decisions are made through collaboration, transparency and careful listening.

If elected, my responsibility is first and foremost to represent the people of Ward 13. At the same time, I recognize that a strong Hamilton benefits Ward 13, and a thriving Ward 13 strengthens Hamilton.

I believe in consensus-building and evidence-based decision-making. I want to work collaboratively with fellow Councillors, city staff, residents and community stakeholders to find solutions that reflect our shared priorities and values.

Not every decision will be easy, and not everyone will always agree. But people deserve leadership that is honest, accountable, and willing to explain the reasoning behind difficult choices. I believe trust is built through transparency and meaningful engagement, and that’s the approach I will bring to City Hall.

What experience, skills, or perspective do you bring that distinguishes you from other candidates seeking the same council seat?

For more than 30 years, I worked in educational leadership roles in both the public and private sectors, where I developed the skills and experience needed to lead complex organizations and bring people together around shared goals.

I managed multi-million-dollar budgets, worked closely with diverse stakeholders, navigated difficult decisions, and focused on building trust through communication and collaboration. Those experiences taught me how important it is to listen carefully, build consensus, and lead with integrity. What also distinguishes me is my deep connection to this community. I grew up here, raised my family here, and have spent 55 years living in and contributing to the communities that make up Ward 13.

As my wife Jackie and I enter this next chapter of our lives, we want to continue making a positive impact on the place we call home. I understand the unique perspectives and priorities across the ward because I’ve lived them alongside the people here for decades. I’m not running because of political ambition. I’m running because I genuinely care about this community and believe I can help make a positive difference.

What is the best way for voters to contact you and/or learn more about you?

The best place to learn more about my campaign, priorities and vision for Ward 13 is my website at www.rickkunc.ca

Residents can also reach out directly by email at rickkunc2026@gmail.com.

I genuinely want to hear from residents, and I encourage people to connect, ask questions, share concerns and be part of the conversation.

Thank you  Rick for engaging with Hamiltonians on The Hamiltonian!